Situated about halfway between Vinh and Hue, the town of Dong Hoi (not to be confused with the neighbouring town of Dong Ha) primarily serves as a base for travellers exploring the remarkable Phong Nha Cave system. The town boasts various spectacular beaches, some relaxing hot springs and a bustling market on the banks of the lovely Nhat Le River. Most of Dong Hoi’s development clusters around the river’s west bank, where you will find remnants of a Nguyen dynasty citadel. North of the citadel lies the ruins of a church and its bell tower, which were badly damaged during the war. Dong Hoi sees very few tourists and makes an excellent off-the-beaten-track destination where you are likely to be welcomed by the town’s fabulously friendly locals who seem to thoroughly enjoy the novelty of foreign visitors.